Plant nerine bulbs directly outside during spring, as soon as possible after receiving them. They may remain dormant well into summer, so allow them time to settle.
'Bionce'
Bowden lily
As autumn light grows softer, Nerine 'Bionce' brings a wonderfully fresh note to the garden. Its exquisite flowers open in luminous white, delicately brushed with the palest blush pink along their edges and central stripes. Each slender petal curls gracefully backwards, its gently rippled outline giving the blooms a beautifully airy, almost crystalline appearance. Gathered in elegant, starburst-like clusters, the flowers sit proudly on tall, leafless stems, creating the impression of delicate porcelain stars floating above the border. The subtle pink markings become particularly enchanting when caught by the low autumn sunlight, revealing details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Nerine bowdenii 'Bionce' is especially lovely alongside silver-leaved plants, soft ornamental grasses and late-flowering purple asters.
With its refined colouring and graceful upright habit, Nerine 'Bionce' is a delightful choice for sunny borders, sheltered courtyards and generous patio containers. Growing to approximately 50–70cm tall, it produces its beautiful flowerheads during September and October, bringing welcome colour as the gardening year draws to a close. Plant Nerine 'Bionce' in spring, choosing a warm, sheltered position with well-drained soil and leaving the neck of the bulb just above the surface. Once established, the bulbs can gradually multiply, creating increasingly generous displays over the years. The long-lasting flowers are also particularly beautiful for cutting, lending an elegant touch to autumn bouquets. With its delicate pink accents and luminous white petals, Nerine bowdenii 'Bionce' offers a wonderfully sophisticated finale to the flowering season.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Select a warm, sheltered spot in full sun, where the bulbs can enjoy plenty of summer warmth. Nerines grow well in borders and containers.
Plant in fertile, free-draining soil. For containers, use peat-free multipurpose compost mixed with grit, and make sure excess water can drain away easily.
Plant the bulbs shallowly with their necks visible above the soil. Space them 10–15cm apart, preferably in groups for a generous autumn display.
Water after planting, then keep the soil lightly moist without waterlogging it. Once established, water during prolonged dry spells and allow the foliage to die back naturally.
Nerines flower best once settled, so avoid moving or dividing them unnecessarily. Hardy varieties can remain outside over winter, with a dry mulch offering extra protection in colder or exposed gardens.
- Botanical name
- Nerine bowdenii 'Bionce'
- Flower colour
- White, pink
- Bulb size
- 12/+
- Established height
- 50-70cm
- Established spread
- 10-20cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
- Upright
- Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- No
- Plant spacing
- 25 bulbs per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- No
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
- Free draining
- Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Stony
Multipurpose compost - Suitable for
-
Pots
Large containers
Borders
Gravel gardens
Coastal gardens
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens - Sunlight
- Full sun
- Toxicity
-
Harmful if eaten
Skin/eyes irritant - Years to establish
- 1-2 years
Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.